My Current Sneaker Rotation.
Sneakers should feel good, look good, and should be worn. Those are the three sneaker commandments that I abide by when purchasing any shoe. However, these requirements were only fully enforced once I entered my 30's before I had such wisdom bestowed upon me. In my earlier days, I've made terrible sneaker purchases, purchases that are certainly cringe-worthy, and could easily come back to haunt me if anyone could access my old Myspace page. I brought everything that was hyped, overpriced, and that was encouraged by Niketalk users (if you know you know).
However, as I look at my sneaker rotation now, I feel the most confident in my selection that I ever have before. My picks aren't rare, hyped, sought after grails but just sneakers that are simple, essentials, and in my honest opinion, timeless.
Sneakers have always been statement pieces that reflect a distinct vibe, and right now, I'll have to say my vibe is currently "cool dad," and I think these shoes are indeed a representation of that sense.
Converse Pro Leather (Thrifts Kicks)
Every thrifter has its frivolous superstitions when it comes to thrifting, and mine are wearing my pair of Converse Pro leathers. I love this model because the Converse Pro leathers were crafted in the '70s but still have a sleek modern aesthetics that fit in the current moment. Plus, when I'm running from different thrift stores, it's not uncommon that I'll run into at least one old head who remembers playing ball in them. I love the fact that these shoes evoke emotion and memories, which is always a vibe. Plus, as they age, they look more attractive, especially with the yellow icy bottom sole. If that description appalled you, remember I wear my sneakers.
Nike Killshots 2 (Formal/Casual) Sneakers
It's almost impossible to go to a cafe in Chelsea and not see somebody wearing a beat-up pair of the Nike Killshot 2s. To be honest I was never a huge low-top sneaker fan before, but these shoes quickly persuaded my decision. The Nike Killshots is an essential shoe because it can easily be dressed up or down which I do quite often. I've never thought I would pass on my black Derby's when stepping out in a blazer and dress pants, but here we are. The shoe is simple in style, looks superb with short length trousers with colorful socks, and doesn't take much effort to pull off. These shoes are pretty much the adult version of the white on white Airforce 1, except its less pressure to keep them clean.
Nike Blazer 77 (The Party Crasher)
The Nike Blazer, in particular, is a personal favorite of mine because, for my very first pair, I got to personalize on Nike ID. Normally, I would have opted for a classic black and white color-way. Still, because I was gifted a Nike gift card for Xmas, I decided to use this opportunity to create a statement shoe that I could pull out from time to time, and the Nike Blazer model was a no brainer. This shoe hasn't seen much exciting action since creating them; in fact, I only wore these to a few small gatherings like baby showers and at my nieces and nephews birthday parties. I figured if you are going to stunt might as well stunt on youngsters and adults who are too busy worrying about the music their kids are tiktoking to.
Reebok Classic Nylon (Dad in the making Shoe)
Going back to my first sneaker commandments, "Sneakers should feel good," and Reebok never fails when it comes to comfort. When I think about dad's style, this shoe vividly comes to mind because it's such a simple and functional sneaker. There are no big bells or whistles when it comes to the Reebok Classic, but the Nylon upper and suede trim and cream color-way makes it an easy cop for me. The Reebok Classic is usually my go-to when I'm headed to a café for an afternoon pick-me-up, (which is quite often.) The Reebok Classic looks great with denim but fair warning if you're wearing raw denim beware because the denim may bleed on the shoe. If you're a neat freak, this will drive, you crazy but I look at each unique mud and coffee stain as a badge of honor. And I have many.
Nike Air Tailwind 79 (Vintage Style)
When we talk about performance sneakers that changed the game, you'll be remiss if you didn't mention the Nike Air Tailwind 79's. It's the shoe that was designed by Frank Rudy from NASA that created the Air- Cushion innovation that set the trend for future Nike running shoes to come. Pardon the history lesson. I feel like this is a shoe that you can lace-up, with a clean white tee, a pair of mesh shorts, and simple crossbody bag to stash your cafe’ cash. As side from the rich track and field history, I feel like every guy should own a pair of running shoes and use them for everything except for running.